The springs of the Krakowsko-Wieluńska and Miechowska uplands : changes, state and threats

Bibliogr. s. 314-315. Recenzowane materiały z II Krajowego Kongresu Hydrologicznego, który odbył się w dniach 17-19.09.2014 w Warszawie

Springs are an attractive and dynamic element of the natural landscape, as well as an important part of the cultural landscape. The identification of the changes in spring’s niches requires an interdisciplinary monitoring, which allow the identification of possible threats. As many as 246 springs previously mapped in the 70. of the 20th century were investigated in 2011-2013 considering their type, discharge, chemical composition of water, the characteristic of spring surroundings including species composition of spring habitat. The aim of the study is the detection of directions of spring changes and the identification of potential threats. Only 38% of investigated springs has preserved their natural character. Significant proportion of them were completely devastated. Within more than 20 spring niches the presence of waste was found. Also decrease in spring discharge of about 10-30% compared to the 70s and 90s of the 20th century was noticed. There was not a clear common tendency of improvement or degradation of water quality, however the problem of spring water pollution is still present. An interdisciplinary research and collaboration of scientist with local authorities seems to be the only way to solve the problem of spring water quality and adequate management of their surroundings. The most unique pristine springs should be protected by law to preserve their natural state. In contrast, the degraded springs should be subjected to the effective revitalization.